Author Archives: Shilpa Mandara

Exploring Ratlam in a Few Hours

I explored Ratlam with my siblings started the day with samosa, kachori and a cup of kesar chai from a local shop near railway station. The taste was good. Then we head to Gordhanlal shop to buy the famous Ratlami sev for friends and family.

Dharamshala Travel Guide

Dharmshala is located in Kangra valley at the foothills of Dhauladhar range in Himachal Pradesh. I spent around 4 weeks in Dharmshala and Dharamkot working remotely and exploring places at my own pace. So whenever I got some time I stepped out to see places around – one place at a time.

Hunt for Fiddleheads in the Wilderness

This evening, I wandered into a nearby forest of Manali with locals to pluck fiddleheads, ferns, and other wild veggies. Three women, little Ishan, and two dogs. This is a photoblog, so I’ll let the photos speak a thousand words.

Justa Lake Nahargarh

When we stayed for a long time at my in-laws’ place in Kota, we were pretty busy visiting relatives and doing lots of things. We felt like we needed a break, so we wanted to go somewhere nice to relax for a bit. My friend from school told me about Justa Nahargarh, so I thought it sounded like a good place to stay, and we decided to book it.

Triund Trek – In The Heart of Dhauladhar

As I wrapped up my office work and packed my backpack for the next day, the playful growl of thunder echoed through the sky promising the rain. Despite the uncertainty of the weather, I kept talking to myself debating whether I’d be able to step out and go for a trek. Yet, amidst swirling thoughts in my mind, I held onto positive thoughts and settled for the night.

Bai Dinh Pagoda Photoblog

Bai Dinh Pagoda is the largest Buddhist temple in Southeast Asia and what I found most fascinating is the temple and the statues – truly grand and Buddha statues in different sizes and materials. You might have seen daytime pictures of the site that is gorgeous, but I visited at night and here’s how it dazzles in the dark.

Best Cafes in Dharamshala

In Dharmshala, Dharmkot, Mcleodganj, and Bhagsu, you’ll find no shortage of cafes with pretty views. Sipping on a hot cup of coffee or tea while gazing at the Dhauladhar range—it’s perfect, isn’t it? During my extended stay, I had the pleasure of visiting several cafes, and here’s my honest review of the experience.

Coliving and Coworking In The Himalayas

Are you bouncing from one fancy hotel to another, or maybe you’re trying to get some work done in a bustling hostel, but something just feels… off. One day, the Wi-Fi is as reliable as a leaky faucet, the next, you’ve got people interrupting you left and right, and don’t even get me started on the hit-or-miss food situation. In any case, getting some office work done? Not happening.

Things To Do In And Around Danang

Last night, we took a sleeper bus from Ninh Binh city to Danang, arriving at 11:30 AM. After checking into our hotel room, despite the comfortable bus journey, I found it difficult to sleep properly. We decided to take the day slowly, resting for a couple of hours. And yay! After gathering our energy, we were ready to head out and explore Danang.